Jens Schoor (Ger) 3-0 [4] Eddie Charlton (Eng)
        11/5, 11/4, 11/5 (37m)

"My billets hand washed my shorts today because of my superstition of playing in the same clothing as last night when I had that great win over Karim. So, I guess I owe my win to my billets!"

               Day Six Report

26-Sep, Day FIVE:
PSA Semis, WSA Final

A first WSA title for Kanzy El Defrawy and an unexpected men's final ...

Quote of the Day:

"They fed me me poutine and that's why I won!"

Day FIVE reports

Day TWO | Day ONE | Day THREE | Day FOUR

11/8, 11/5, 3/11, 2/0 rtd (59m)

[4] Eddie Charlton

11/5, 11/4, 11/5 (37m)

8th PSA title for Jens

11/7, 6/11, 4/11, 11/7, 11/8 (58m)

[2] Karim Ali Fathi

23-Sep, Qualifying Finals:

Nick Sachvie (Can) 3-2 Joe Chapman (Bvi)        11-5, 7-11, 11-9, 12-14, 4-11 (77m)
James Van Staveren (Can) 3-1 Mike McCue (Can)        11-8, 5-11, 11-4, 11-9 (53m)
George Parker (Eng) 3-0 Sunil Seth (Guy)                             11-3, 11-8, 11-5 (23m)
Jan vd Herrewegen (Bel) 3-1 Matthew Serediak (Can) 11-2, 9-11, 11-7, 12-10 (56m)

22-Sep, Qualifying Round One:

Joe Chapman (Bvi) 3-1 Strachan Jarvis (Can)                11-4, 11-5, 6-11, 11-7 (37m)
Nick Sachvie (Can) 3-2 Thomas Brinkman (Can) 11-7, 4-11, 5-11, 12-10, 11-5 (46m)
James Van Staveren (Can) 3-0 Adrian Leanza (Usa)               11-7, 11-4, 11-6 (32m)
Mike McCue (Can) 3-0 Adrian Ostbye (Nor)                            11-6, 11-5, 11-4 (21m)
Sunil Seth (Guy) 3-0  Kale Wilson (Tri)                                  11-7, 11-8, 11-5 (27m)
George Parker (Eng) 3-0 Jay Fleishman (Can)                       11-4, 11-5, 11-6 (24m)
Jan Van Den Herrewegen (Bel) 3-0 Francisco Mendez (Mex)       1-0 rtd (1m)
Matthew Serediak (Can) 3-0 Brad Hanebury (Can)                11-2, 11-3, 11-9 (23m)

11/6, 11/7, 11/6 (25m)

[7] Nikki Todd

[1] Kanzy El Defrawy

11/7, 11/5, 11/5 (23m)

11/8, 12/10, 11/7 (41m)

  [2] Cecilia Cortes

The Pre Final Warm Up

The evening began with a number of professionals and club members taking part in a unique players challenge. One off rallies were played for each 'challenge' which included playing with a racket strung with only 6 strings, having to touch all 4 walls in a rally, playing with an American Hardball, a junior ball, a tennis ball, hitting a slew of cork-screws, phillies, backwall boasts, etc... Raphael Kandra prevailed not that anyone was really counting and with the emphasis on fun it was a great way of warming the crowd up for the main event.

Jens Schoor (GER; WR 87) beat [4] Eddie Charlton (ENG; WR 55):
           11-5, 11-4, 11-5 (37 mins)

First blood to Jens with a wonderful nick in the first point. Jens served, Eddie returned with a lob which Jens jumped and plucked from the air powering it towards the knick with the fizz audible from the slice he managed to put on the ball. Fantastic start! Beyond any doubt Jens was up for this.

Points were traded in the early stages with both players working good lengths and taking opportunities when they presented themselves. But, at 4-4 Jens pulled away from Eddie by consistently hitting his superb backhand drops and forcing Eddie into defensive play and then capitalizing with great offensive shots. But another overhead that Jens spins fizzing towards the left wall knick just clipped the tin by a hair giving a lifeline to Eddie.8-5 to Jens at this point. Can Eddie find a way back? That was the immediate question on my mind and this would be the most opportune time. But after a no let decision that Jens benefited from and an unfortunate back wall knick Jens took the first game 11-5.

The second started very brightly for Eddie. Feathering the ball with an open racket face, coming under and sideways across the ball and sending it into the right hand nick just like we’ve all seen Gaultier do time after time. Then at 2-0 to Eddie a big no let/strike situation. Some discussion between the players referees followed by two hotly contested exchanges both of which go to Jens. 2-2 and more lets and more discussion. The decision goes in Eddie’s favour. But Jens retaliates with his go to shot, firing in the backhand drop for a winner and a 3-2 lead. And again for 4-2. A tin from Eddie makes it 5-3 and yet another backhand drop brings it to 6-3. Another huge rally ends in a stroke bring it to for 7-3 for Jens.

Now the higher pace beings, more hotly contested rallies, more depth and assertiveness from both players but again that deadly backhand drop from mid to back court from Jaen does so much damage. Jens’s metronomic backhand drop making all the difference. He takes the second 11-4.

And here’s the bizarre thing, first back on court before the 3rd is Jens to practice what else but that back hand drop!

And now for drama, a request for a change of ball.Discussion from the referees and the players of course. Obviously it suits Eddie and well Jens, things are going well, so why change anything?

In any case it was allowed and the third started with a new ball. Wonderfully Eddie showed Jens that he too can put in a great backhand drop with precision, slice and deft touch knocking one dead at the beginning of the third. But Jens retaliates. Great positional play followed by cutting drops and volleys taken in with great slice. Jens leads 4-1 and again he does that backhand killer drop. More points to Jens.6-1 becomes 9-4 and boom! And huge forehand kill for 10-4. 6 matych balls for Jens!

After one irretrievable thunderous forehand from Eddie Jens takes the next point and the title.

NASH Cup winner 2014 , Jens Schoor!

Eddie: Jens played the better squash today and deserved the win.

Jens: My billets hand washed my shorts today because of my superstition of playing in the same clothing as last night when I had that great win over Karim. So, I guess I owe my win to my billets.

Some Notable Moments Over the Past Week

Reflecting on the past five days of squash some notable things come to mind.

The highlight for me was certainly the way Thomas Brinkman in the first round of qualifiers showed wonderful sportsmanship when, at match ball down, he conceded a stroke against himself when the referees had only given a let - a true gentleman.

The most bizarre moment during the entire week, surely, was our four tournament referees taking the opportunity during a break from professional play to try hardball doubles - never have I seen a game with as many lets and so little effort made to get to balls!

And the most endearing moment was our WSA Champion Kanzy El Defrawy joining some club members for a game of 3’s, just for fun, and then watching helpless as one club member hit winning reverse angle boast time after time!

And in many ways you could say the real competition is only beginning with nine amateur draws starting last night. There's nothing like amateurs, inspired by watching some of the worlds top players, donning compression socks, stretching until their muscles pop in the gym beside the worlds elite and making every effort to be the best they can be, be it in the PSA, WSA, Open or beginners division.

WSA Final

[1] Kanzy El-Defrawy (EGY, 68) 3-0 [4] Hollie Naughton (CAN, 75)
            11-7, 11-5, 11-5 (23 mins)

Report by Kárlis Zauers

The Egyptian Kanzy, currently world ranked 68 but has been as high as 27 in the world before entering university defeated the Canadian Hollie Naughton, WR 75 in a high paced match that featured excellent shot making and retrieving on the part of Kanzy and hard accurate hitting by Hollie.

After sharing some early exchanges Kanzy increased the pace through a mixture of accurately hit shots plus a high court position. This pressure reduced the time that Hollie had both to play her shots and crucially to decide in a split second where to place the ball. This proved crucial as Hollie sometimes elected to play the wrong shot at the wrong time which Kanzy capitalised on. 2-2 swiftly became 9-3 and Kanzy won the first game 11-7.

In the second game Kanzy raced into a 9-0 lead through a mixture of pressured play and wonderful shot making. This is the Egyptian brand of squash people have come to love - hitting dead nick winners when the opportunity presents itself. After finishing the second game 11-5 Kanzy again charged into an 7-1 lead in the 3rd game. Hollie managed to claw some points back but Kanzy ran out the game 11-5 and took the match 3 games to 0.

After the match Hollie spoke of her nerves since this was in fact her first PSA final. She felt tight and wary of her shot selection. In an instinctive game like squash with split seconds making all the difference this was a big disadvantage to young Hollie.

Kanzy on the other hand has been in these positions many times before from world junior days to top tier WSA events.

Speaking after receiving the NASH Cup trophy, she thanked her hosts who "fed me me poutine and that's why I won!"


PSA Semi Finals

[4] Eddie Charlton (ENG; 55) beat [1] Joe Lee (ENG; 32):
         11-8, 11-5, 3-11, 2-0 retired (59 mins)

Match report by Keith Sequeira

The potential matchup between Joe and Eddie had been talked about in the London squash club for days as the early rounds played out. Even though Joe had the lifetime 2-0 match and 6-0 game lead, this had all the makings of an epic battle.

The first game was a cat and mouse affair on both sides, neither person wanting to give the other the upper hand. There was great sportsmanship from the onset with this battle, with players giving up points handed to them by officials, to ensure fairness. By the end of the first two games, it was Eddie’s great holds and hands that edged out Joe’s diverse arsenal. The first went 11-8 and Eddie gained momentum in the second with an 11-5 showing. Both games showed splendid shot making, holds, power, retrieval and at times, magic. But, by the end of it, all spectators still expected this match to go five.

The third held true to form with Joe dominating 11-3, as one would expect when a player of his caliber has his back against the proverbial wall. He looked revived and invigorated to go the distance.

The fourth started out in Joe’s favour 2-0 when he sustained an unfortunate injury. In an attempt to stop from barreling into Eddie, he twisted his body, landing awkwardly and injuring his left ankle, going down. The warrior that he is, he got up and tried to return. He needed an injury time out and assessment by medical personnel. His ankle was treated and taped, but sadly, it was not meant to be on this night. He sustained a severe ankle injury that prevented him from returning.

The disappointment on Joe and Eddie’s faces was palpable. Neither gladiator wanted it to end this way. To both competitors’ credit, they were ultimate sportsmen throughout. Take nothing away from Eddie on this night though. He deserved the win for a spectacular game of squash that bedazzled the crowd and had many admiring “how did he do that”.


Jens Schoor (GER; 87) beat [2] Karim Ali Fathi (EGY; 46):
             11-7, 6-11, 4-11, 11-8, 11-7 (58 mins)

Report by Karlis Zauers

Many thought that this would be Karim’s match with 31 places between them in world rankings and having come though earlier rounds relatively easily winning 3-0 in each game.

Jens, however started very well taking an 6-0 lead. Despite taking some points back Jens ran out the game 11-7. The style of play very much suiting the German.

The second game Karim played more like himself and he increased the pace dramatically. With Jens still throwing in superb backhand drops and keeping Karim ‘honest’ it wasn’t enough to stop the Egyptian.

It was a similar affair in the third with Karim taking it 11-4. And then began a more measured game from both players with Karim fighting to push a higher pace and Jens working the front of the court, throwing in back hand drops at will. Jens took the 4th …just.

The fifth was anyone’s game but with Jens back hand drop working so well he kept firing it in and is there can be any criticism of Karim it was that he kept giving him the opportunity. Jens took it 11-7 in the fifth.

Karim: Very disappointed with my match today.

Jens: When it went to 5 it was anyone’s game. I am happy that I prevailed today.

WSA Semi-Finals

Quote of the Day:

I’m very happy to qualify for the final and try poutine for the first time which I was promised I’d have tonight for winning!

[4] Hollie Naughton (CAN, WR 75) beat [2] Cecelia Cortes (USA, WR 70):
             11-8, 12-10, 11-7 (41 mins)

Cecelia started the first game very brightly. She was moving very well from the first point of the match and getting to the ball early and playing excellent counter drops off Hollie’s boasts. 4 unanswered points came from this pressure. Hollie, however, started to find her rhythm and striking the ball much more crisply and accurately. She was rewarded with some back wall winners and crosscourt drives driven past the outstretched Cecelia. 0-4 became 5-5 and she continued accumulating points to get to 9-5.

But Cecelia with the assistance of a left wall squeeze on Hollie after an impeccable length, a forehand drop winner from mid-court and a backhand boast from Hollie that just clipped the tin. Still leading 9-8 Hollie regained composure and hit an excellent backhand drive winner to lead 10-8. After another great rally with excellent positional play and shot making by both players Hollie forced a loose ball from Cecelia and stepped in to feather a backhand drop from mid court into the knick. First game to Hollie.

Hollie maintained her aggressive hitting, peppering the back of the court with accurate shots that left Cecelia with little to play from. Literally powering to an 8-2 lead before Cecelia found a way back. Two tins from Hollie brought Cecelia to 4-8. A superb backhand kill gave her another but a poor forehand drive into the tin on the next point gave Hollie another point. Another corner to corner rally with great coverage by both player that ended in a forced loose shot from Hollie which Cecelia drove into the open court. Hollie hit a superb back hand drive winner to give her 5 game balls with the score at 10-5.

Cecelia dug in and had her best spell of the match. Playing tighter and more controlled with some great lobs and excellent countering she brought it back to within two points. A superb backhand volley kill from midcourt followed by a forehand whipped cross court past a despairing Hollie evened the game at 10-10. The crowd becoming very much involved in the game. But a let and unfortunately a blood injury as Cecelia gets clipped by Hollie’s follow through. A 10 minute injury break ensues as the bleeding is stemmed. Then, back on court, a warm up, and the players get underway again. Superb rally! Great penetrative hitting by Cecelia and great retrieving by Hollie. Cecelia looks to have the rally won three times but for Hollie to just reach the ball in time. But then a loose shot from Cecelia and Hollie hits a winning backhand drive into the back of the court past Cecelia’s despairing lunge. 11-10 to Hollie and she wins the next with a great length that Cecelina fails to dig out. Second game to Hollie.

The third was mostly dominated by Hollie’s heavy hitting with Cecelia countering with great cross courts and straight drops. It’s level pegging to 6-6 at which point Hollie manages to pull away and take the game and match with again some excellent driving and pressure that it creates. Hollie takes the match 3-0.

Cecelia: I’m disappointed to lose of course. That second game proved to be crucial in the outcome of the match.

Hollie: I tried to stay as focused as possible while Cecelia was treated for her blood injury. Winning that second game was so important. I’m so happy to have made my first WSA final!


[1] Kanzy El-Defrawy (EGY, WR 68) beat [7] Nikki Todd (CAN, WR 75):
               11-6, 11-7, 11-6 (25 mins)

Staying ahead on the score board in every game and always keeping Nikki under pressure was what Kanzy did to win this match in 3. Initially Nikki put away some great forehand and backhand volley drops. Halfway through the first game Kanzy tightened her shots and played the straight channels to the back of the court reducing what Nikki could play off. And firing in some nicks and straight drops helped too!

Nikki couldn’t challenge Kanzy when she had so little to play off especially with the high tempo Kanzy managed to keep for most of the match. Even under pressure Kanzy was able to use imaginative shots to lift the pressure from herself and put it back on Nikki like at the end of the first game when she hit a screw-lob off one of Nikki’s drops tight to the back of the court and followed it up with a ripped cross court into space from Nikki’s dig out from the screw-lob.

The second and third games were much the same. Given the chance Nikki brought balls in short with wonderful touch off Kanzy’s looser drives but found the pace difficult to cope with. Kanzy took it 11-6, 11-7, 11-6.

Kanzy: Having never played Nikki before I was unsure what to expect. I was impressed with her touch which initially surprised me. I dealt with it by keeping the ball in the corners to neutralize it. Keeping the pace high also helped me to. I’m very happy to qualify for the final and try poutine for the first time which I was promised I’d have tonight for winning!

Nikki: Kanzy has great shots. She moved me around a lot. I knew I had to play a perfect game to stand a chance of winning but unfortunately I had too many unforced errors. Congratulations to Kanzy, she deserved the win.


PSA Quarter Finals

Joe Lee (ENG; WR 32) vs. [7] Peter Creed (WAL; WR 79):
             11-3, 9-11, 11-5, 11-7 (58 mins)

Both players started very well with great movement, good channel play and excellent retrieving. Initially Joe was doing the probing and his accurate hitting had Peter on the run. But Peter is not just a runner, not by any stretch of the imagination. He played straight drops off some of Joe’s straight hitting which while being something of an aggressive shot kept the court from being opened too much. Joe coming back with some deceptive drops and boasts helped him run out the first 11-3.

Joe started the second very positively. He was attacking with very consistent lines. At 6-8 Peter takes the ball in beautifully for a straight volley drop winner. More tight rallies with great retrieving from both players. Joe goes down trying to get one of Peter’s drops. Massive point! Peter roars with passion! More tight drops and Peter secures the game.

Peter starts the third very positively and Joe is actively looking to slow to the ball and regain control of the games pace. At 6-3 there is a great point with superb retrieval from both players droping and counter droping and Peter finishes it by showing showing a crosscourt and hitting a drive straight for a winner. He punches the air.

Tin and another tormented scream. Joe now playing more controlled squash. Stretching, probing, attacking deep and giving Peter little to work with.

The fourth game was a very tense affair. At 3-3 Peter and Joe had a great rally with both of them being turned inside out multiple times. At 7-7 there is another lung bursting rally. Drop and counter drop and Joe drives straight with Peter going early to cover the crosscourt. Two big errors from Peter give Joe 9-7. It’s not the time for that. Joe takes the last two points and wins 3-1.

Joe: Winning the first relatively easily didn’t help me in the overall game I don’t think because Peter came into the second with much more energy and a new plan. I’m a bit annoyed to loose the second but very happy to get through. I played better today than yesterday and I hope I can play better again tomorrow.

Peter: Patchy. I played patchy today. Struggled too with focus. Lacking clarity at crucial times didn’t help me especially when I elected to play difficult shots instead of the safe ones which isn’t easy to do under pressure.


[4] Eddie Charlton (ENG; WR 55) beat [5] Raphael Kandra (GER; WR 59):
                11-9, 11-1, 11-4 (40 mins)

Raphael rushed off to an early lead leading in the first 7-2. It was furious stuff being played at great speed. Eddie used great variation to change the pace of the game. Raphael, a bundle of energy contrasted with Eddie, a more measured player who used great variation to netrualise Raphael’s more explosive play. To be fair to Eddie he did extremely well to come back from 7-2 down and take the first game 11-9. Skill and tactics aside, he had to work for it.

The second and third games were all Eddie. It wasn’t the case that Raphael was playing poorly, quite the opposite infact. Eddie’s medias touch was turning all his shots to gold. Even his movement looked effortless. He took the second 11-1 and third 11-4.

Raphael: Well in the first game I got to a 7-2 lead. It was fast and furious. For some reason I because a bit more defensive which had the result of slowing the game down. This played into the hands of Eddie which is more like his natural game. I was out of rhythm and I couldn’t regain it. There more for me to learn I guess.

Eddie: I felt good in there. I knew I had to play well but it took me a bit of time to get going. I felt I executed my game plan very well.


Jens Schoor (GER; WR 87) beat [LL] Sunil Seth (GUY; WR 149):
            11-7, 11-6, 11-6 (30 mins)

Both players carried off where they finished in their previous games playing excellent length and counterattacking of any loose attacks from each other. Jens was able to work Sunil more around the court and kept collecting points in doing so.

Sunjil again displaying wonderful athletic skills in continuously retrieving Jens tight shots and Sunil’s used his superb racket skills to take opportunity when they arose Match is Jens, 11-7, 11-6, 11-6.

Jens: It’s often difficult to play someone you don’t know. Today was no exception. Sunil is a very skillful player and I knew I couldn’t relax. He was a little tired I think from his previous games this week. Happy to make it through to the Semis.

Sunil: I didn’t feel tired out there and am quite comfortable playing 1 match a day. But I was a little slow to push off when he brought me in short. Happy with what I’ve achieved this week.


[2] Karim Ali Fathi (EGY; WR 46) v [8] Declan James (ENG; WR 81):
               11-6, 11,6, 11-8 (46 mins)

Great length hitting by both players in this match. Karim really kept the pace high and he loves to play like that. Declan is a more unhurried player, very focused and clear with what he was trying to achieve on court.

The first game was level pegging until 4-4 at which point Karim went on a run of 5 successive points. Trading the next few rallies with Declan saw him take the first 11-6. The second was a similar affair with Karim also taking it 11-6.

The 3rd was a long game with excellent hitting from both players and superb retrieval. One rally in particular was never ending and was in excess of 50 strokes. It was tight in the end but Karim came through 11-8.

Karim: Declan is a very good player. Knows my game well and I know his as well. We knew what to expect. Managed to pick up the pace on him which helped me because I was struggling with his length. I wanted to inject pace. He wanted to slow it down. That can be difficult to play against. Happy to be through with a 3-0 win.

Declan: We were coached by the same coach for a time. We played some measured squash I guess you could say with Karim trying to up the pace. I needed the legs today and to be more physical, enough to break him down but I couldn’t manage it.

[1] Joe Lee (ENG; WR 32) beat Lewis Walters (ENG; WR 110):
           11-8, 11-8, 8-11, 11-3 (53 mins)

Match reporting from Dave Morrish via on-line streaming

Intro - what a pleasure to be asked to report on a match and congratulations to Jay Nash for taking this tournament to a new level with live streaming.

The match started out with Lee [WR 32] finding his length early and pulling out to a big lead. Walters settled down in the second half of the first game drawing close to 6-7. They exchanged point for point for several long rallies before Joe showed his experience pulling away to an 11-8 first game win.

Joe started the 2nd with a couple of uncharacteristic unforced errors but soon went back to the drawing board with solid and disciplined squash (which he needed to as Lewis in my opinion was dictating the play).

The rallies got longer, but not in a boring way - both players were using the whole court (drop and volley drop at the front) and covering the court like the fine athletes they are. Joe then started to move away from Lewis, getting onto the ball early and chopping in a good short straight ball. Lewis was not done though and brought it back from 5-8 to 8-8. The pace was still high from both players, and so was the retrieving. We are definitely at the "business end of the game". As so often happens, the higher ranked and more experienced player closes it out from here and Joe did just that. Lewis didn't do much wrong....he was still playing his shots, getting everything back and generally playing great squash. Joe was doing the same but capitalized on the vital openings he was presented with at the end of each rally which he duly put away into the open spaces. Great game!

Both players started off the third game where they finished and exchanged points up to 6-6. It was very hard to choose between the 2 players. Both making the odd error, and playing winners, great retrieving, long rallies....who would make the break? At 6-6 a long rally resulted in a "no let" which Lewis disputed and Joe acknowledged and asked the ref to play a let. I have been watching Joe play squash since he was 10 and he has always been a fair player. Good to see he still has this attitude. Lewis thanked him by winning the next 4 points to take a 10-6 lead. Joe got one back but Lewis closed it out 11-7. Game on!

With both players starting off like they did the game before, taking the ball early, exchanging points to 3-3, it looked like we had a match on our hands. Sadly for Lewis (happily for Joe) this was not the case - Joe reeled off the next 8 points with some solid squash (and a few gifts from Lewis) to take the match 3-1. Great match!

I was following the scores from the game next door between Peter Creed and George Parker, both of whom I have known for a number of years. Would have loved to have seen it!

Lewis: Started slow but made my way back into it. Bit left it a little late in the first! Overall happy with how I played.

Joe: We’ve known each other since we were young and perhaps that showed a bit in our play. Happy to have won against a tough opponent.


[7] Peter Creed (WAL; WR 79) beat [Q] George Parker (ENG; WR 197):
               8-11, 11-3, 6-11, 11-5, 11-5 (46 mins)

Match reporting by Karlis Zauers

What a see-saw battle this turned out to be. Peter [WR 79] started the slower and with him failing to hit his lines in the first game George took full advantage by taking the ball in short with vicious but also accurate cut, especially on the left hand wall, from some of Peter’s ¾ length shorts. Moving into an early lead he maintained it for the rest of the game despite Peter’s great efforts. And some efforts they were! At 9-5 to George and after playing a wonderfully disguised short boast Peter dived from the back court to retrieve it! At 9-6 to George, Peter shapes up to hit a cross court but at the last instant somehow turns his racket over to hit the ball straight into open space. But George had his own reply and off Peter’s serve at 9-8 George hit a thunderous roller. 10-8 to George! After a loose right wall overhead that just clipped the side wall, George showed excellent court craft by positioning himself for a backhand shot, therefore taking more court space and boxing Peter in and playing a reverse angle boast into open space. Great tactics from George and he takes the game 11-8.

Peter quickly got into the lead in the second helped by some errors from George. Both players moving well and showing their skill. Peter picking up many of George’s balls taken in from the back of the court as before but with Peter on them quickly he was able to counter drop them and often into the knick. Peter now hitting better length than in the first and hitting straight, especially off some of George’s short boasts and straight drops. Peter takes it 11-3.

George comes roaring out of the blocks early in the 3rd game taking the first 4 points and forcing Peter into some errors. Both players keep hitting winners and tins in equal measure and George maintains his lead until serving to Peter at 8-4 Peter powers his return into the knick! But another couple of errors from Peter gives George a game ball and George seals the game when, after a long rally, he leaps up and plucking an overhead from a great height he sends it into the knick for another roller! 2-1 to George.

In the fourth it’s Peter who takes an early lead. 5-0 becomes 7-2 becomes 9-3 with Peter’s great play forcing George into some mistakes. A left wall squeeze from Peter brings up game ball at 10-4. A stroke to George save one game ball - 10-5. Great retrieving now with superbly taken in balls being picked up by both players. With the front court being covered so well Peter elects to drive the ball deep for another cross court winner. 2-2 and we’re into a fifth!

Peter opens up an early lead in the 5th taking the first 3 points. But George replies to tie it at 3-3. A straight drop off a serve gives Peter the lead again, 4-3. Some loose play ends with George hitting the tin. 5-3 and a bellow erupts from George. A well taken forehand straight kill from Peter off a loose-ish crosscourt from George now has Peter leading 6-3. But a no let makes it 6-4! Another frantic rally. Straight and crosscourt drives mixed with working boasts and opportune straight drops ends with Peter clipping the tin off a tight left hand wall drop by George to bring it back to 5-6. But this was as close as he got. Tiredness perhaps, a loss of concentration by George, whatever is was, Peter took advantage in the next 5 rallies hitting some excellent length which gave him the opportunity to play a forehand drop for 7-5, too good for George to retrieve. 8-5 from some great straight hitting. 9-5 from a great cross court kill! A ¾ length drive from George is taken by Peter for a great straight kill. 10-5 and 5 match balls to Peter. He only needed one after George hits the tin on a left wall drive. Game to Peter. Commiserations to George after a great match. He certainly is one to watch!

Peter: I was a bit edgy in the first and wasn’t hitting my lines. Once I relaxed I tightened up my play and played a lot better. Looking forward to my next match.

George: Disappointed of course not to have won. But Peter played well at the end to take it. Congratulations to him.


[5] Raphael Kandra (GER; WR 59) beat [Q] Nick Sachvie (CAN; WR 218):
           11-0, 11-4, 7-11, 11-6 (38 mins)

Match reporting by Keith Sequeira

Raphael came out of the gate at full speed. He cut balls off adeptly, his anticipation, power and finesse were overwhelming in games 1 and 2. Nick did not know what hit him and looked weary from two prior nights of 5 set matches (and four match points against him), physical squash (and who could blame him). Nick somehow found a way to summon a reserve for the third game and it created a great squash game with great ball movement, power, holds, changes of direction and pace. Nick squeezed out the third and looked revived. However, on this night, Raphael was too much. It was a competitive fourth game but Nick’s legs could not handle the punishing pace and great skill administered by Raphael and the lingering impact of the past two nights.

Nick: He was unbelievable in the first two games. The entire match, he made very few errors and was extremely tough. I am pleased with my performance in this tournament. I had a great time and thank the tournament committee.

Raphael: I tried to keep the pressure on from start to finish. Nick has great racket skills and I needed to give him as little time to prepare and be deceptive. I am very happy with my game tonight and look forward to the quarters.


[4] Eddie Charlton (ENG; WR 55) beat [Q] James Van Staveren (CAN; 407):
             11-7, 11-4, 11-7 (35 mins)

Match reporting by Messrs Amit & Sujai Shah

This was a highly anticipated match, as James had showed tremendous poise, patience and racquet strength as he dispatched two much higher ranked opponents in qualifying for the main draw. As Western Men's Team Captain, he had the home crowd on his side. Eddie is at the Nash Cup for the fourth time: he is a known and appreciated as a competitor also, and the crowd readied for a battle. The first game started with intensity and quality from the opening rally. James demonstrated an exceptional ability to get behind deep balls and make quality returns. Eddie kept him guessing with holds that lasted just a fraction of a second longer than one thought possible.

After going down 4-1, James patiently constructed two lengthy rallies and capitalized on them both. At 3-4, he produced a lovely backhand reverse boast to tie the game. James showed he had no intention of being satisfied with an opening round berth only. The crowd saw the potential for a major upset and was thrumming. Now level, the next point also went to James as he shaped a backhand crosscourt, sold the deception to Eddie, and then nailed a straight backhand drive to take the lead. Eddie came right back with a strong return and resulting stroke call. He then showed some brilliance of his own with points from a forehand crosscourt kill followed by a forehand nick. At 9-6 for Eddie, James needed to take back control, but Eddie's serve died in the backcourt corner and put James into a tremendous hole. Nonetheless, James fought back with an entertaining series of exchanges that included a hotly disputed let call. The purple tide was rising as the Western player brought it to 8-10, but Eddie finished with emphasis and game 1 was taken by the Englishman 11-8.

It was clear that there was no intimidation factor in the first game, and James had come to play. But Eddie had come to Canada on a mission also, and he brought a laser like focus to rapidly take the lead in game 2. He punished the ball and showed a plasticity of joints reminiscent of Elastic Man. James' returns had depth, quality and variety, but Eddie's long reach and deep lunges meant that nothing less than perfection would give James a point. James fought back into the game with a dead nick drop and some fantastic length that defeated even Eddie's coverage. But Eddie showed his experience and dialled in for two crosscourt nicks to put him at 9-4. James at this point was under tremendous pressure and was showing fatigue from the punishing rallies. The game closed at 11-4 for Eddie.

Game 3 and James pulled out all the stops. He briefly took a lead at 4-3 through more brilliant rally construction, but an impeccable lob by Eddie tied up the game. At 6-4 for Eddie, the players jostled and circled each other for control of the T - these two elegant players briefly looked like they were in a wrestling match. Intensity remained high, and Eddie produced a drop that appeared to be sucked into the side wall. James was undeterred and won the next point with a tremendous boast. Eddie played a rare unforced error to bring us to a 1 point game, and the crowd got behind James yet again. Eddie took the next two points. Down 9-6, James responded with a masterful reverse boast. The dream died here however, as Eddie once again showed his pace, length and quality and he patiently took advantage of James' fatigue to close out the match 11-7.

James: The first game was a close one ... he took that one and it hurt me ... I had already played in two matches and he was fresh and got lower to the ground.

Eddie: I had seen James play, he is talented with the racquet ... I could feel he was tiring at the end and I took advantage ... Nice to be back for the 4th time, I love this tournament.

Sujai: My Dad wouldn’t stand a chance in there!


[LL] Sunil Seth (GUY; WR 149) beat [WC] Albert Shoihet (CAN; WR 373):
              8-11, 11-4, 10-12, 11-4, 11-8 (63 mins)

Match reporting by Bobbert Doherty

Wow, what an impassioned affair. Albert, with a large Western and Canadian Squash following taking on lucky loser Sunil who, due to a late withdrawal from Shawn Delierre (due to injury) was given a second chance in the draw.

No mythical mizuki shots today. This one was serious with a spot in the quarter finals going to the winner.

Albert started the better of the pair leading 5-1 and 10-5 before eventually winning the first game 11-8. Rallies were long and attritional with both players displaying similar levels of speed and athleticism.

But in the second game Sunil came into his own. The hard work of rallying with Albert for 1 and a half games had paid off and with perhaps a slight dip in concentration by Albert Sunil seized his chance and hit a rick vein of form going from 1-3 to winning 10 of the next 11 points with super clean drives and crisp hitting. Also nicking out when the opportunities presented themselves kept the pressure firmly on Albert.

With the games standing at 1-1 the third would be crucial in term of match momentum. The battle started early in the third with attritional rallies punctured by some remarkable shot making when opportunities presented themselves. This was gladiatorial stuff. Balls being forced past players with great pace only to be retrieved from the back of the court with skill of battle hardened been in this position before players. Albert gained an early lead 4-2. And pushed on to 7-3 with some great cross court hitting. The next 4 points were shared with Albert leading 9-5. Sunil took the next 5 points to lead 10-9. And Albert, lifted by the enormous support of his following in the gallery took the next 3 points to win the third 12-10. Breathtaking squash from both players!

But credit to Sunil, he didn’t let his head drop after the third. Working straight lines and keeping attacking opportunities for Albert to a minimum he took an early lead in the fourth game. Albert was a little flat after the exertions of the third game but he still hung in there. 3-0 to Sunil became 4-1 and players traded points up to 6-4 for Sunil. With the hard work paying off for him Sunil had Albert moving and chasing the ball instead of attacking and with a number of side wall squeezes he won the last 5 points to take the fourth 11-4.

I didn’t fancy Albert to regain his earlier momentum but somehow he did and started the start of the 5th very positively taking the first 3 points. Both players traded points 3-3, 4-4, 5-5, 6-6, 7-7. Attritional squash with both players somehow still covering every inch of the court with great efforts being made to keep their shape and poise. 3 points in a row to Sunil and 3 match balls! 10-7. First match ball saved by Albert! 10-8. Another long rally and finally a tired boast, the ball clips the tin and Albert turn to offer Sunil his hand. 3-2 in 63 mins to Sunil.

Sunil: No mizuki shots today! That was a hard game of squash. Looking forward to tomorrow.

Albert: No complaints, I had my chances. Well done to Sunil.


Jens Schoor (GER; 87) beat [6] Charles Sharpes (ENG; 67):
             5-11, 13-11, 11-7, 11-9. (58 mins)

Match reporting by Bobbert Doherty

With Jens winning their previous matches on the PSA tour he perhaps was a slight favourite dispite Charles superior PSA ranking. Charles started the brighter winning the first 4 points but Jens retaliated winning 4 of the next 6 pints to just trail 4-6. Another good run of points to Charles with the aid of some excellent length and squeezes and pulls away 10-4. He takes the game 11-5.

The second game was over 20 mins long and was hard level pegging squash with both players playing superbly. 3-3, 4-4, 5-5… Jens takes it 13-11 after a number of tense rallies and some tough decisions for the referees.

The third was similar but at 6-7 Jens pulled away to take the last 5 points to win it 11-7. Both players were playing well with Jens perhaps playing with some better tactics and certainly taking his chances when the presented themselves.

In the fourth Jens continued his good form to take an early lead 5-1. Charles recovered to 4-5. More tight rallies with both player working each other looking to create openings. 6-4 became 8-6 and 10-6. 4 match balls to Jens! Charles saves the first 3 but not the 4th. Jens wins the fourth 11-9 and the match 3-1. Charles will be disappointed not to have saved the last match ball.

Jens: Glad to get the win!

Charles: Jens played well. Got to work on how I finish games better.


Declan James (ENG; 81) beat [Q] Jan Van Den Herrewegen (BEL; WR 167)
             11-8, 11-6, 13-11. (37 mins)

Match reporting by Brad Handebury

Declan started very well hitting good length. Jan started slowly but he did pull the game back to 6-8 after going 8-1 down. Declan did well to regain his focus at the end of the first game.

The second game was much better by both players. Both are tall guys and didn’t let a lot of balls past and both were volleying very well. Declan took it 11-6 but Jan was playing well.

The third was really close. Jan managed to get to game ball at 10-9 after being 6-9 down. A number of lets and tight play where Jan had some chances but none of them were easy. Physically Jan looked to be tiring but he still covered the court with great strides. Declan kept the play tight and always away from Jan moving him more and more until he could work an opening. Once he drew level there was only going to be one winner in the 3rd but Jan did pull one back but Declan took it 13-11.

Declan: Had a healthy lead in the first which he pulled back. Have to work on closing out games. Happy to win in 3.

Jan: Happy with the game. Declan played well. I started badly but after I relaxed I got into the game in the 2nd and 3rd games when I was a bit more confident. He’s a big guy with a big reach and difficult to get the ball past!


[2] Karim Ali Fathi (EGY; WR 46) beat Dane Sharp (CAN; 89):
                 11-6, 11-9, 11-8. (55 mins)

Match reporting by Garry Sullivan & Aaron Stilson

The first game saw an extremely high pace. Karim came out with some solid deep court lengths and snap crosses, catching Dane leaning too far in the wrong direction. Dane battled back with some excellent recovery shots and deft touch, but it wasn't enough as Karim took the game.

The second game saw a close battle with both players stepping up on the court and making aggressive plays. An important mid game rally saw over 30 shots with Dane eventually winning on endurance (and a timely stroke call). Dane used the rally to propel to a 9-6 lead but Karim managed to battle back with some well placed winners and a loose ball from Dane to win the game 11-9.

The third game was a tight affair with Dane again taking an early lead. Karim looked off his game only to battle back and find his length as the game went on. The match came down to the wire with a controversial end, where a questionable call caused Dane to speak up and receive a conduct stroke to lose the third game and the match.

Dane: I thought I played well. Spend 2 days looking at video analysis and knew what I needed to do. But as I tired my strategy slipped a little bit. I should have kept attacking when he was lifting but that was hard and my mental tiredness hurt me in the end. Left too much in the referee’s hands.

Karim: It was a good match. Dane is a very good player. I wish the refereeing was more consistent. My strategy was to play the ball quick. His game was pressure on the back. My crosscourt worked well for me tonight but his length from the backhand side did a lot of damage.


WSA

Cecelia Cortes (USA, WR 70) beat [8] Nayelly Hernandez (MEX, WR 101):
                11-5, 11-5, 11-6 (26 mins)

Match reporting by Srinivas Krishnamorthy via on line streaming


The match between the left-handed Cecilia and the right-handed Nayelly made for an enthralling spectacle because of the constant switching of play between the two walls. It started with both players finding the corners with consistency and accuracy. There was nothing to choose between the two of them halfway through the first game when the score read 6-5 in favour of Cecilia. However, one felt that Cecilia could always take her game up a notch and sure enough she won the next 5 points to close out the game. Her signature shot was a hard hit back hand cross court into Nayelly’s weaker side. As an aside, Cecilia’s backhand swing is fascinating to watch because of the way she puts her body weight through the shot – something the coaches constantly preach to juniors.

The second game followed a similar script with the first few rallies being evenly fought. At 3-3, Cecilia imposed her play to run away with the next 6 points. One felt that Nayelly was tiring; on a couple of occasions she failed to move for the straight drop after being forced to play a boast.

In the third, it seemed like Nayelly had decided to put one last effort. Her drives were more positive and she managed to keep pace with her higher ranked opponent. At one point Nayelly was actually leading 6-4, partially because of a series of four lets in a row that seemed to upset Ceilia’s composure and rhythm. However, the southpaw regained her focus to put together a series of severe backhand drives followed by perfect volley drops from loose balls popped up by Nayelly. With that Cecilia closed out the match. A professional performance from her with not too much energy expended. Nayelly, on the other hand, will look back and try to figure out how to keep her game up for the second half of games. After all, that makes the difference against higher ranked opponents.

Cecelia: Nayelly has always been a great player so I was lucky to win in 3. She moves so fast and hits the ball really well.

Nayelly: Cecelia managed to finish each game very strongly. I wish her well in the rest of the tournament. She played well today.


[4] Hollie Naughton (CAN, 75) vs. [6] Antonella Falcione (ARG, 82):
              11-3, 9-11, 11-3, 9-11, 11-5 (54 mins)

Match reporting by Arden McKillop

This was a great game of squash. Hollie was hitting the ball really well in the first game and getting winners from deep back hand drives. She won the first 11-3. Antonella came back in the second and both girls were hitting the ball really hard and having long rallies. Antonella won the second 11-9.

But it was all Hollie again in the third. Crisp backhand shots were getting her outright winners or forcing weaker returns from Antonella which Hollie capitalized on. She won the third 11-3. Another big game where the score remained close throughout. Antonella played really well and retrieved superbly which along with her own great ball striking gave her the opportunity to win 11-9.

Anotonella seemed a bit tired in the 5th but the score was close until Hollie pulled away from 5-4 to 8-5 and eventually won 11-5.

Hollie: Played well, happy to win the battle! Been having them recently and losing in the 5th. Happy to be on the winning side this time. Credit to my opponent for pushing me.

Antonella: Tough match! Hollie played really well. I lost focus at times which is disappointing. She played better today.


[7] Nikki Todd (CAN, 84) beat [3] Thaisa Serafini (BRA, 71):
               11-6, 11-7, 11-6. (19 mins)

Match reporting by Dougal McKillop

Both players arrived promptly for their match looking intense and eager in the warm up. Todd sporting a flattering black one piece dress while Serafini looked resplendent in an orange top and blue skirt combination.

As the early phase started it was apparent both women were trying the establish a length game. As the rallies built, Todd showed superior patience and also shots when appropriate to take the first game 11-6.

Pace and pressure were the order of the day as both women battled for control of the ‘T’. Todd exerted her influence with a solid 11-5 victory in the second.

Game three saw Serafini keeping pace with Todd during the early going. She was now minimizing her earlier errors and loose hitting. But Todd was able to reestablish her length coupled with some crafty drops and she pulled away to win 11-6. This was a great result for Todd who was the lower ranked player in this match.

Nikki: It was a good clean game. Both of us moving well around each other. Many of the rallies were very intense. My countering worked well today.

Thaisa: I am disappointed of course but congratulations to Nikki. I was a very fairly played game of squash.


[1] Kanzy Emad El-Defrawy (EGY, 68) beat [5] Diana Garcia (MEX, 80):
               11-4, 11-1, 11-4 (18 mins)

Match reporting by Graham Leitch

In game one Kenzy's agility, power, and accuracy right from the beginning of the game allowed for an early lead. This trend continued as she kept control of the ‘T’ and she moved into a 7-1 lead. Despite Diana’s best efforts Kanzy took Game one 11-4.

The Egyptian opened game two in the same fashion as the first, attacked early in rallies and she gained a 6-1 lead. She continued to use her power and accuracy and cruised to an 11-1 second game win.

Strong drops and quick feet allowed Kenzy to keep the pressure on Diana which forced her to make costly errors, providing El-Defrawy with the 11-4 victory in the third game. 3-0 to Egyptian Magic!

Kanzy: I had a long trip from Hartford yesterday but my legs felt good today. I really tried to focus on length and build from there. In game 3 my shots were maybe a little loose so I want to wake up and play with better concentration tomorrow. This is my first time at the Nash Cup. It’s a great event and so well run. I’d love to come back again. The people I’m staying with are so funny. He keeps giving me advice, telling me to play with Egyptian Magic! I’m trying my best!

Diana: It was a tough game for me today. Kanzy hits such a good length that it’s hard to attack from. She played fantastic and I wish her the best in the rest of the tournament.

It was a busy night at the Nash Cup with 4 PSA final round qualifiers with some surprise results and 8 WSA first round matches taking place.

Nick Sachvie and James Van Staveren added to Canadian interest in the main draw with wins over Joe Chapman and Mike McCue, joined by George Parker and Jan Van Den Herreweggen.

Sunil Seth profited from the withdrawal of third seed Shawn Delierre to grab a 'Lucky Loser' spot against local wildcard Albert Shoihet.

In the women's matches all eight seeds progressed to the quarter-finals, with Nikki Todd and Hollie Naughton providing the home interest.

Goodie bags on court

Quote of the day:

"Well that was quick! My coach went off for a sauna and missed my game!"

 

PSA – Qualifying Finals

Nick Sachvie (CAN; WR 218) beat [1] Joe Chapman (BVI; WR 111):
           11-5, 7-11, 11-9, 12-14, 4-11 (77 mins)

Match reporting by Keith Sequeira

This was ‘a physical tussle’. The match between Joe and Nick was intense, high paced and at times a chippy battle. Both players fought hard for position on the court throughout this battle with long, punishing rallies which combined control of the tee with hard driving shots and superb touch that moved both players to the limits of their physical abilities.

Joe controlled the pace and tee in the first game. Nick rebounded with power, finesse and speed to win the second. That is when the match became intense, with every point seeming vital for momentum. Joe had the third in hand at 10-6 when Nick ground out three points to 10-9. At that point, a close stroke call ended the third game, creating discussion among the spectators. Nick had to survive a match point in the fourth at 9-10 with grit and a hard fought point and rebounded to win that game 14-12.

This is the fifth match point that he has survived in two matches over two days. The major trench battle in this match was in the 1st through 4th games. Ultimately, the fourth game was an epic battle that see-sawed over 23 minutes with Nick emerging the victor. The final game was a crisp game played by Nick but the fate of the match was determined in the fourth.

Nick: This was a physical battle. I am so pleased to have come out on top. Fortunately, I achieved my goal of qualifying for the main draw of the tournament. Now, I need to set new goals for tomorrow.

Joe: I had the match in my grasp with that match ball in the 4th and I am disappointed I didn’t take it. I’ll be returning to my base in Florida to prepare for my next tournament.


James Van Staveren (CAN; WR 407) beat [3] Mike McCue (CAN; WR 128):
        11-8, 5-11, 11-4, 11-9 (53 mins)

Match reporting by Keith Sequeira

The match between James and Mike was a game of many ebbs and flows. It matched the hands and shot making abilities of James against the steely determination, endurance and consistency of Mike.

In the first game, James got out to a fast 6-0 start and then needed to hold on. Mike roared back to take the lead in the match only to see it recaptured by James. At one point, James won a 58 shot rally that seemed to provide him with a huge momentum shift. In the second game, Mike was intent to play a tight, smart game and this punished James and seemed to have him tired by the end of the 11-4 game.

James found a second wind for the third game, winning a few quick points, which seemed to energize him to a large lead and quick game. The fourth game was a great test of wills with chess like tactical play for both players. James held an 8-5 lead only to see it slip away to being down 8-9. At 9-9, Mike unfortunately tinned a couple of hard fought points to lose a great contest.

James: I have worked hard on my fitness all summer to try and be better in the 4th and 5th games of matches. Fortunately, it paid off tonight. Winning the first game and getting out early in the third game were huge for me and allowed me to play freely, which was huge.

Mike: James has great racket skills and is a very dangerous player. I am hugely disappointed to lose the match but he played exceptionally well and his fitness was much improved.


[7] George Parker (ENG; WR 197) beat [4] Sunil Seth (GUY; WR 149):
            11-3, 11-8, 11-5 (23 mins)

Match reporting by Karlis Zauers

George, the 18 year old exciting young junior from England, took on his higher ranked opponent, Sunil from Guyana, in what proved to be an interesting mixture of styles. Both players exhibited excellent movement and speed in their 1st round qualifying matches but both won with quite differing styles of play. Sunil at times bludgeoned both the ball and his first round opponent, Kale Wilson, into submission. George on the other hand played with wonderful variation and deception.

The first game began with George taking an early lead. 3-1 quickly became 6-1 as he looked to take the ball in early with deft volley drops played with cut. He was maneuvering Sunil around as he had done to his first round opponent and capitalizing on loose shots. Never looking rushed or out of position George was in control. 6-1 became 7-2, then 8-3 and he ran out the winner 11-3.

The second game was a very different affair. Sunil played much more attacking squash and went for ‘nicks’ at almost every opportunity. Opening the court up like this seemed like a risky strategy but it had the effect of preventing George from maintaining his rhythm. It’s difficult to play volley drops when the ball comes rolling out of a knick! Sunil now had George retrieving and he took an early lead 3-0. More frantic rallies, more attempted knicks into both front left and front right corners often in the same rally!

It was frantic stuff with Sunil was winning as many points as he was losing with his attacking play. A strange kind of parity now existed. Sunil with his open aggressive play against George’s control and deception. 3-0 became 7-4 at which point George, perhaps figuring out a new strategy started playing straighter channels and hitting to the body off the serve thus reducing Sunil’s nicking out opportunities with paid George immediate benefit. Points started going his way and after drawing level at 7-7 he pushed ahead to take the second game 11-8. Order was restored.

Up to this point there were no obvious rallies where Sunil was taken in by George’s deception but I think George’s style of play finally took it’s toll on Sunil’s stamina. And despite two great nicks to start the third game George started manoeuvring Sunil and stretching him more and more in the 3rd game. With George getting on the ball so quickly and showing Sunil the straight drop but playing the ball back the court time and time again it was taking it out of Sunil’s legs.

Midway through the 3rd game George got Sunil moving from corner to corner with Sunil picking up some magnificent balls at the front of the court to keep the rally going but finally after showing Sunil yet another straight drop George with great skill played a straight drive from a position that seemed impossible and from a racket head position that also seemed impossible.

Sunil was left stranded, the spectators were swaying in their seats and the referee and marker, Messrs Howard and Bowering, not normally known for getting directly involved in games, looking so hard for that straight drop from George literally disappeared over the balcony railing only to be pulled back to safety by safety aware spectators.

George: Sunil rolled a few returns of serve so I started serving into him more. I targeted his backhand and tried hard to maintain my focus and discipline.

Sunil: After the first game I decided to go for it but unfortunately it wasn’t enough against George. After 3 straight months of tournaments I’m starting to feel these games. Time for a rest!


Jan vd Herrewegen (BEL; WR 167) beat [2] Matthew Serediak (CAN; WR 119):
          11-2, 9-11, 11-7, 12-10 (56 mins)

Match reporting by Rob Doherty and Peter Urkedal

In the first game you could see both players feeling each other out with solid lengths and crisp cross courts drives being hit by both players. Both were testing the movement of one another. Jan was hitting some nice mid court boasts to put Matt under pressure and move him from corner to corner. Matt was countering with some nice drop shots but a couple of tins turned the tide and Jan walk away with the first game.

In the second game Matt came out striking the ball with authority and taking it early. He had the lead at 6-4 and Jan threw in a beautiful deceptive mid-court backhand boast to be down by one. The game was tied 6-6 all and Matt kept the pressure on hitting some tight drops. Matt fought off a late charge by Jan to hold on and take the second game 11-9.

At the start of the third game both players came out firing. Some incredibly placed drop shots and insanely delicate tight mid-court boasts had the game at 9-7 Jan in no time. Jan went on to win 11-7 with an incredibly winner followed by a tin from Matt in the next rally.

The fourth game started with two quick errors from Matt. Down 2-0 he quickly regained his composure and tied the game at 3-3. This game took a different shape as both players attacked the front and countered dropped more often. There was some fantastic retrieving and exciting rallies with both players playing terrific squash. At 10 all the rallies only pick up in pace with neither player letting the ball die without a fight. Jan retrieved everything thrown at him and countered with precision to win 12-10 and advance to main draw.

Jan: The first 2 games really took it out of me as Matt was making me work harder than him. I started cramping in the 4th but found a way to get through in the end. Looking forward to the main draw match against Declan.

Matt: I’m disappointed I didn’t take that 4th game. I knew Jan was struggling but he did well to come back at me and take that 4th. Good luck to Jan in the rest of the tournament.

WSA Round One

[5] Diana Garcia (MEX, WR 80) beat Laura Savage (local):
             11-3, 11-4, 11-5 (17 mins)

Match reporting by Jessica Wilken

It was a difficult task for Laura to take on such a highly ranked opponent but she gamely made a valiant effort. Diana took the first game 11-3 with Laura finding it difficult to deal with Diana’s pace and accuracy of hitting. But in the second it was level pegging. 1-0 to Garcia, Laura then levels 1-1 and takes the next point to lead 2-1. Then 3 long rallies with Laura covering so much of the court. 4-2 to Diana. Laura fights back and wins the next two tumultuous rallies.

Straight drives mixed with working boasts. Both players being moved corner to corner. The pace of the match and the hard work put in by Laura to stay with Diana early in the second finally took its toll. We’ve all been there, lung burning leg wobbling rallies. Despite Laura’s continued effort Diana took the next 7 points to win the second game 11-4. Diana always stayed ahead in the third game and her straight driving and working boasts were too much for the tired legs of Laura. Diana won the 3rd 11-5.

Diana: It was a good match on my part and I played with confidence after recently taking part in the Pan-Am games which were played at altitude. I feel strong and was very happy with my hitting today. I’m very happy to get through the first round and I’m looking forward to my next match.

Laura: Well that was quick! My coach, Paul Cocker, went off for a sauna and missed my game! Diana played exceptionally well and her straight hitting was too much for me. At 4-4 in the second I was gassed. Well done to her and I hope she does well in the rest of the tournament.


[8] Nayelly Hernandez (MEX, WR 101) beat Brooke Burrowes (local):
               11-0, 11-3, 11-0 (12 mins)

Match reporting by Karlis Zauers

Nayelly started the first game with great length and had Brooke on the back foot right from the beginning. Brooke was rallying well but was always just that half-step away from being comfortable on the ball. She lost the first 11-0 but did well in the second to win 3 points during the course of the game. In the third the Nayelly’s pace of play had taken its toll and she ran out the game 11-0. Good experience for Brooke. This will stand to her I’m sure when she plays for Western this year.

Nayelly: I hadn’t played her before so I concentrated on playing length and getting used to these cold courts. [Being used to unheated courts on the very cold and damp island of Ireland it took some time for me to pick my jaw up off the floor but when I finally levered it back into place I enquired regarding our perishingly cold 30 degree Celsius conditions (at least to me), Nayelly explained that she too had just travelled from altitude after playing in the Pan Am Games in Guadalajara, Mexico. I suggested she pop by for a visit in February!] I’m happy to be through to the next round.

Brooke: It was difficult to get used to the higher pace of game compared to what I’m used to but I enjoyed the experience.


[4] Hollie Naughton (CAN, WR 75) beat [10] Giselle Delgado (CHI, WR 129):
             11-6, 11-8, 12-10 (25 mins)

Match reporting by Sandra Shaw

Former Western player, Giselle, now the Chilian No 2 got close but just came up short against Holly (WR 75) today. In the first game Giselle was volleying well and creating pressure for her opponent but some loose shots along with Holly’s ability to recover from pressured situations and control the ‘T’ gave her the opportunity to hit more winning shots. Holly won the first 11-6.

Holly kept the pressure on Giselle in the second game and kept taking advantage of any loose shots on Giselle’s part. It was close but Giselle just missed out losing it 11-8.

Giselle played much better in the third. She was thinking clearer and constructing her rallies in a much more concerted way. But some back hand errors cost her at the end. Holly was striking the ball very crisply especially on the backhand with excellent volleying reflexes. She took a close third 12-10 and the match 3-0.

Hollie: I was happy with my hitting today. I felt comfortable on court and I’m glad to have made it through in 3 games.

Giselle: I’m disappointed with my performance but I knew that I had to play my best today to stand a chance of winning. My shots were just that bit below par to trouble Hollie enough. I’ll be back next year!


[6] Antonella Falcione (ARG, WR 82) beat Arden McKillop (local):
              11-5, 11-1, 11-4 (14 mins)

Match reporting by Karlis Zauers

Antonella the hard hitting Argentinian took on London’s young junior in what was a great experience for Arden. Antonella started better and got off to a 6-0 lead as Arden tried to get used to this higher paced game. But get used to it she did and she started scoring points hitting some will placed forehand low winning drives and great drops after taking the ball early. Alas, she lost the first 11-5.

In the second it was all Antonella who found her rhythm and started striking the ball very crisply and with good accuracy. It was too much for the young Arden to deal with and Antonella took the second game 11-1. But Arden regrouped in the third and again hit some good winning shots when she was able to take the ball early. She lost the third 11-4 but overall I have to say se did exceptionally well against an opponent ranked 82 in the world!

Antonella: Playing Arden brought back memories of when I was her age! I had no alternative but to focus concentrate on the game. Having just participated in the Pan Am games it was important for me to control the game and my energy which I did well.

Arden: It was fun! I had to try my best to keep up with the pace of the game. It was hard but I’m happy with how I played.


[3] Thaisa Serafini (BRA, WR 71) beat [9] Micaala Seth (CAN, WR 114):
             11-8, 11-6, 9-11, 13-11 (35 mins)

Match reporting by Brad Hanebury

Micaala is well known to us here at London Squash and I expected this to be a close game. Thaisa has an excellent boast which she used to great effect against Micaala. The first two games went to Thaisa but they were close.

Thaisa played the important point a bit better I think. But Micaala did very well in the third winning it 11-9 and she maintained a lead throughout the whole game. The fourth was another close game with Thaisa winning it 13-11. It could have been anyone’s match it was that close!

Micaala: Congratulations to Thaisa, she played well today. Wish I could have taken it to a 5th!

Thaisa: It was a close match with Micaala today and I was glad to win the 4th after being game ball down.


[7] Nikki Todd (CAN, WR 84) beat [WC] Melina Turk (CAN, WR 211):
          11-2, 11-3, 11-6 (16 mins)

Match reporting by Srinivas Krishnamoorthy via on-line streaming

The match featured two charming young Canadian ladies who are sure to be popular with the local crowd. Nikki, who is the more experienced of the two, played textbook squash to dominate the first two games. Mixing up accurate drives and volleys to the back of the court with touch shots that were invariably winners, she gave a demonstration of patient yet positive squash – something that recreational players (including yours truly!) would do well to incorporate into their games.

Melina, to her credit, expressed herself more in the third game, striking some lovely winners with her backhand to take a 5-3 lead. Nikki, however, has been in these situations plenty of times, and sure enough she steadied her game to go on a run of points to close out the match.

Melina need not feel discouraged. She will take this as a learning experience for future battles. Nikki, meanwhile, will surely feel pleased with her play, and look forward with confidence to her next match in the quarters. Go Nikki!

Nikki: I miss Srini! Wish he was here! I enjoyed the match which was played in good spirits since I’ve been friends with Melina for so long.

Melina: Nikki played well today. It was nice playing against her again!


Cecelia Cortes (USA, 70) beat Holly Delavigne (local):
              11-9, 11-2, 11-3 (20 mins)

Match reporting by Laura Savage and Al Fayed

The first game see-sawed back and forth with Holly taking an early 3-0 lead before Cece replied with 6 unanswered points. Cece made excellent use of her hold to catch Holly flat footed. Holly then won the next 4 points to take a 7-6 lead. The end of the game was very tight with both Holly and Cece playing with similar styles. Despite Holly’s great retrieving Cece took the first with a crisp backhand volley drop to take it 11-9.

In the second game Cece took advantage of the visibly tiring Holly being slow to front and with a few tins aiding Cece she took a 9-0 lead. Holly hit a good winner and after an error from Cece, Holly reduced the arrears to 9-2. But after another winner at the front Cece took the game 11-2.

The third game followed a similar pattern to the second with Cece taking the ball in short at every opportunity. Cece won the 3rd 11-3!

Cece: She took it to me in that first game. She hits hard, runs well and played aggressively. Got into my rhythm in the second and started playing more aggressively and she let me have the second and third.

Holly: Wow! I’m tired! The first game wore me out and didn’t have much left for the second and third.


[1] Kanzy El-Defrawy (EGY, WR 68) vs. Nicola Crich (local):
              11-0, 11-2, 11-1 (13 mins)

Match reporting by Jeff Tudhope & Srinivas Krishnamoorthy

The locals were eager to watch the top seed Kanzy play. And she did not disappoint. Nicola, a member of the junior program at London Squash, was always going to find it difficult against Kanzy who has a world ranking of 68! Kanzy's shots were a bit too much for the youngster. The rallies were short but the crowd gamely cheered the local player for trying her best. After all, it is not often that Nicola gets to face world class competition like she did tonight.

Kanzy will move on feeling happy that she has not expended much energy in the first round. Kanzy will face sterner tests in the coming games if she is to confirm her top billing! She won in 3 games, 11-2, 11-3, 11-6.

Kanzy: It was good to start the tournament with an easy match having had such a long trip to make it to this tournament. It’s my first time here and I’m delighted to meet such friendly hosts and play in such a well organized tournament.

Nicola: It was a fun experience and I’m glad to have had it. Tired now!

Matches started a little later than initially scheduled today.

If this did any one thing, it certainly heightened the tension within the club as professionals nervously prepared to take to the court and compete in the first round of qualifying.

The home crowd saw Canadian winners in four of the eight matches as Nick Sachvie, James Van Staveren, Mike McCue and Matt Serediak made it through to the qualifying finals.

Quote of the day:

Brad Hanebury: "I think this is the first time Matt has ever beaten me!"

Matt Serediak: "It’s the first time I’ve ever played Brad!"

Jay's Crystal Ball

Match of the Day

Qualifying Round One:
Karlis Zauers reports

Joe Chapman (BVI, WR 111) v Strachan Jarvis (CAN, local):
               11-4, 11-5, 6-11, 11-7 (37 mins)

Joe started the first game quite well and found his length within the first few rallies. Strachan, initially starting slower, did well to draw level with Joe during the first game at 4-4. However, a combination of accurate hitting from Joe and some errors from Strachan resulted in Joe running out the first game 11-4. More confident in his hitting, Joe forged an early lead which he steadily built upon bringing him to 9-3 at one point in the second game. Strachan managed to bring this back to 9-5 before Joe snatched the last two points to win the second 11-5. 2-0 to Joe yet it was clear Strachan was not being out played. Rallies were well contested and constructed by both players.

Joe’s consistency and accurate hitting, perhaps, edging it for him so far. The third game was a different affair altogether, with Strachan starting at blistering pace and bringing the ball in short and straight off Joe’s loose cross courts on a number of occasions. Strachan showed great strength and poise when doing this and simply kept at it. Good deep hitting was rewarded with clean put aways after he had forced some loose shots from Joe. 5-0 to Strachan became 9-1 and although Joe did well to claw back some points Strachan did enough to win the third game 11-6. With Strachan now firmly in the ascendancy Joe’s markedly better hitting at the end of the third, despite losing the game, paid him dividends in the fourth as he carried this improved form into the next game. Both players started equally, trading points like boxers trading blows. 1-2 combinations being thrown by both players. 2 points to Joe followed by 2 points to Strachan. The next point to Joe followed by the next point to Strachan. 2-2, 3-3 and a flurry of points from Joe taking it to 7-4.

Both players now striking the ball low and hard with great accuracy and adding variations of pace and spin. Most impressive was some of Strachan’s use of height from the back court to alleviate the pressure Joe was exhorting on him from his sublime hitting. Jab, jab, duck and jab. Strachan returning the favour with 3 points of his own. 7-7 and the crowd roaring their approval. This was now a real contest and they wanted more. Screeching from shoes as players dove and slid to retrieve short angled boasts and deft drops mixed with thunderous wallops as the players drove the ball into the back of the court forcing it past each other with great pace. Gone were the earlier variations of pace and spin; this was primitive, survival stuff, raw and engrossing to watch. Who would succumb first? Who would falter if a jab hit home and take that backward step allowing a follow up flurry of punches? It could have been either and alas for local supporters it was Strachan.

Losing concentration, the wrong choice of shot, a tired half step can happen to anyone. But to players just about to break into the world’s top 100 less so and this is where Strachan came undone. Joe maintained his intensity while Strachan lost his and the last 4 points of the match losing the 4th 11-7.

Joe: Strachan really hung in there early on and started playing better as the match went on. He really put me under pressure in the 3rd. Thankfully I was able to come through in the 4th.

Strachan: Felt quite nervous in the first two games but physically felt fine. Once I found a better length my game came together in the 3rd and 4th. Just lost my way right at the end. Didn’t feel tired during the match which I’m a bit surprised at given the pace of the game so I guess I’m happy enough with the way I played. Congratulation to Joe, he played well.


Nicholas Sachvie (CAN, WR 218) v Thomas Brinkman (CAN, WR 238):
           11-7, 4-11, 5-11, 12-10, 11-5 (46 mins)

Nick started the first game exceedingly well. He looked sharp and his accurate lengths and volley boasts were getting the better of Thomas’s excellent retrieving skills. 3-0 became 7-3 became 11-7. A comfortable first game to Nick. Now take what I’ve just said and reverse it. Thomas picked up some excellent balls, put Nick under some pressure and with the assistance of straight drop outright winners off some of Nick’s boasts Thomas ran out a comfortable winner of the second game 11-4. And it was a similar story in the 3rd, being 11-5 to Thomas. Then came game 4 where everything and anything happened. Nick took an early lead 3-0. A quick point to Thomas after picking up another of Nick’s boasts and another well constructed rally from Nick brought the score to 4-1.

Then Thomas went on a run of 6 unanswered points. Quite where they came from I cannot say. Both were playing well but perhaps not as deep as before and maybe getting caught out a bit with their court positioning. In any case, points were accumulating and Thomas had forged ahead 7-4. And after Nick lost the last rally he broke his racket over his leg with a resounding twack! To add insult to injury he received a conduct stroke for this frustrated act leaving the score 8-4 in Thomas’s favour.

Despairing at his luck Nick lost 2 of the next 4 points while wrestling with his composure. Oh we’ve all been there, this reporter quite likely more than most! 10-6 to Thomas who now had 4 match points. And it was as if Nick had a mammalian reflex. Having grappled with his composure and sedated it he started playing solid squash. Good length and boasts the now visibly tiring Thomas was struggling to get to. But did he leave it to late?

Incredibly, he didn’t, and ran out the 4th game winning the last 6 points to take it 12-10 and into a decider. Nick took an early lead in the 5th winning the first four rallies to give him a 4-0 lead. Thomas managed to pull back a few points but Nick kept scoring with his consistent positional play that Thomas just couldn’t match like he had earlier in the match with his excellent retrieval skills. Nick took it 11-5 in the 5th. Well done to both players and especially to Thomas who conceded a stroke on match ball to Nick after the referee allocated a let.

Nick: Started well but lost my way a little in the middle of the match. Somehow pulled it back. Thomas played well and I enjoyed the match.

Thomas: I was 2-1 up and exhausted. Somehow I made it to match ball but my legs had gone and I was gassed. Congratulations to Nick, he deserved it after coming back in the 4th.

Our prophetic tournament organiser, Jay Nash, was smiling more than a Cheshire Cat when I passed him today, deliriously happy that his prediction of a 5th set between Nick and Thomas came true!

James Van Staveren (CAN, WR 407)v Adrian Leanza (USA, WR 157) :
              11-7, 11-4, 11-6 (32 mins)

What a match from James. Not only did he overcome 250 world ranking places in his win against Adrian but he did so with the best hitting I’ve seen so far in this tournament. Rallies went a bit like this: Adrian would hit a good tight length and James would hit one a little better forcing a looser shot from Adrian upon which James would unleash some ferocious and incredibly consistent hitting into the back of the court.

It reminded me of Peter Nicol (former World No. 1 and World Champion) in his pomp. And Adrian did not capitulate by any means despite the immense pressure he was under. He hung in until 7-8 in the first before James pulled away at the end of the game winning it 11-7. But it was all James in the second game with his relentless accurate hitting shot after shot matched only by his wonderful retrieval skills when they were needed. He charged into a 7-0 lead and ran out the game winning it 11-4.

Adrian hung in early on in the 3rd but at 3-4 James again pulled away. No ball was out of reach as he appeared to pick at will where he would place it. The 3rd finished 11-6 and congratulations must go to James for a simply wonderful wonderful display of squash. And commiseration’s to Adrian who came up against someone playing sublime unanswerable squash.

Adrian: Well played to James. He played amazingly well today.

James: I think I played well today but I think I also maybe stopped Adrian playing his best shots too since I started so well. I enjoyed the game and I’m looking forward to playing in the qualifying final tomorrow.

Michael McCue (CAN, WR 128) v Adrian Ostbye (NOR, WR 317) :
                11-6, 11-5, 11-4 (21 mins)

Adrian charged into a 6-2 lead in the first game. A mixture of fast hitting and advantageous volleying getting him points early on. But Mike, with all of his 189 world ranking places between him and Adrian played a simple game. Displaying excellent self control, no tricks, no exaggerated body positions, a little deception and consistently building very controlled rallies and waiting, waiting for that perfect attacking opportunity which he executed wonderfully.

From 6-2 down Mike scored 9 unanswered points to take the first game 11-6. And the second and third games were similar. Precise play from Mike who kept accumulating points when opportunities arose and if they didn’t he’d refuse them and play another controlled shot. This was a kind of surgery by Mike. No risks just beautiful controlled play that was difficult for Adrian to deal with. He stayed in it but ran out the second game 11-5 and the third 11-4 to Mike.

Adrian: Mike played great squash today and deserved to win. I maybe forced things a bit instead of being a bit more patient.

Mike: Very happy with my play today although Adrian started so well in the first. I didn’t panic and kept to my game plan. Happy to be in the final of the qualifiers tomorrow.

Sunil Seth (GUY, WR 149) v Kale Wilson (TRI, WR 249):
                 11-7, 11-8, 11-5 (27 mins)

Well I’m surprised they didn’t go through a dozen squash balls during this match such was the power Sunil was generating both on the forehand and backhand sides. Kale, not as big a hitter as Sunil, was maneuvering him with clever holds and use of his wrist to change the direction of the ball at the last second. It was a great contrast of styles and a very close match despite it being 3-0 in Sunil’s favour. Rallies were long and attritional and punctured with the sound of Sunil’s impressive heavy walloping of the ball.

After letting Sunil take an early lead in the first game Kale managed to get close at 4-5, 6-8 and 7-9 before Sunil took the last few points to win the first game 11-7. The second was all Kale for most of it. Good length, great working boasts and then that wrist again throwing Sunil the wrong way. Kale was ahead at 6-2, and again at 8-6 before forfeiting two points through strokes against him to let Sunil in again at 8-8. The hard hitting Guyanese gladly accepted the invitation and took the next 3 points to win the second 11-8.

The third was a cagey affair with Sunil always being a few points ahead. Kale brought it back to 5-8 but Sunil again played strongly towards the end of the game to win 11-5 in the third. Interestingly, members of the crowd claimed to have witnessed Sunil playing a ‘misuzi’ shot into the knick not once but twice! Both times I was checking in on another match. Unlike a normal volley a mizuki is played with the other side of the racket by turning your wrist over thus deceiving your opponent and spectators too of course.

Having interrogated Sunil after the match regarding this shot and if he played it or not I’m still none the wiser but I will be keeping a very close eye on his next match in the hope of seeing a repeat!

Kale: It was tough in there today. The courts were warm and the ball was lively. I lost 3-1 to Sunil recently and I was hoping I could push him further today. But he played well and deserved the win.

Sunil: I absolutely didn’t play a mizuki shot today. And I’d think I’d remember if I did! (In answer to my mizuki interrogation) Kale played well today but I played the big points at the end of each game a bit better. It was 3-1 some weeks ago so I wasn’t taking anything for granted today.

George Parker (ENG, 197) v Jay Fleishman (CAN, 412) :
                   11-4, 11-5, 11-6 (24 mins)

In a match up between the youngest and oldest competitors in the event it was the young English man, George Parker, who triumphed. Jay from the off struggled to cope with George’s mixture of pace, shot accuracy and variations of speed.

And on top of all that his speed onto the ball was phenomenal as well as his deception. As times he had the gallery swaying along with Jay, expecting the ball to be going one way but instead sending it he other. George very quickly entered into a commanding 7-1 lead in the first game and he ran out a winner 11-4.

The second was similar with George again taking another big lead, 7-2 before Jay managed to pull a few points back before George won the last 4 points and took the game 11-5. The third was closer but Jay as always just a few points behind. George took the third 10-6.

Jay: He has great deception and got me on the back foot a number of times today. Would have liked to have played a bit better but George deserved to win.

George: Happy with the way I played. I found a good length early on and despite some loose shots in the second overall I’m happy with my performance.

Jan Van Den Herrewegen (BEL, WR 167) v Francisco Mendez (MEX, WR 382):
             Game 1, 1-0, retired (1 min)

Unfortunately in the second rally of the match Francisco had to retire.

Jan: Never nice having to pull out of a game so I feel sorry for Francisco. Looking forward to playing tomorrow.

Francisco: Unfortunately I couldn’t continue. I wish Jan luck in the rest of the tournament.

Matthew Serediak (CAN, WR 119) v Bradley Hanebury (CAN, Local) :
            11-2, 11-3, 11-9 (23 mins)

The final match of the first round of qualifying proved to be a very entertaining affair with local Brad Hanebury taking on WR 119 Matthew Serediak. The initial rallies and the high tempo proved difficult for Brad with Matthew striking the ball superbly with great pace and cutting it severely for short winners. Mathew won the first game 11-2 and the second 11-3.

He even managed to hit Brad with a serve as Brad was recovering after a tough rally and slow to react! But the third game was very different. With a boisterous local crowd behind him and having refuelled after his break between games Brad stayed on an par with Mathew up until 5-6. At which point Mathew had a run of four points with Brad visibly tiring to lead 10-5.

Brad dug deep and played his best squash of the match winning four superb rallies to trail Mathew 10-9. Alas for Brad, it was a bit too late and Mathew managed to take the next point and hence the match. Well done to both players for a very entertaining game.

Brad: I think this is the first time Mathew has ever beaten me!

Matthew: It’s the first time I’ve ever played Brad!

I have been informed by tournament organizer, the Hermes-eques Jay Nash, our prophetic messenger of the Gods, that his analytical pick based on the assurances of the world ranking system for the closest contest will be the second match of the day with Nick Sachvie and Thomas Brinkman with their world rankings only 20 places apart at 218 and 238’ surely going the distance!

We await the fulfillment of this prophecy and will return to Jay for further observations over the coming days.

Our own Kale Wilson (WR 249), who currently plays for the Western Mustangs, fresh from participating in the Commonwealth Games last month for Trinidad and Tobago and having recently turned professional with immediate success having shot up the world rankings this summer is certainly one to watch but will have a tough match against his higher ranked opponent Sunil Seth (WR 149) 100 places higher than him in the world rankings.

Kale will be joined by Western teammates James Van Staveren (WR 407) and Strachan Jarvis, who, having competed in previous installments of this event, will no doubt be eager to progress past the first round of qualifiers.

Western alumnus Adrian Ostbye (WR 317), recently turned professional and representing Norway, has gained valuable experience on the PSA tour this past summer that he will likely have to draw upon against his higher ranked Canadian opponent Mike McCue (WR 128).

An exciting prospect in the game today, the young Englishman George Parker (WR 197) is only 18 years of age. He recently made the quarters of the World Juniors in Namibia last month and quite interestingly, as the youngest competitor in the draw, will be taking on Jay Fleishman (WR 412), the oldest, at twice his age!

Another older participant in the event is club member Brad Hanebury who will have huge support in the gallery from fellow club members as he again tries to usurp an established pro.

PSA – Main Draw

The Nash Cup has never had a repeat winner but both last year’s champion Joe Lee (WR 32) and 2011 champion Shawn Delierre (WR 54) will be looking to make this a redundant statistic.

And with 8 other players ranked inside the top 100 in the world they will have to overcome fierce competition if either are to regain their title.

WSA - Main Draw

With 7 of the 8 first round matches featuring local players the NASH Cup truly is giving great experience to local players.

However, to make the final they will have to overcome the young Egyptian and Trinity Bantams No.1 Kanzy El-Defrawy (CSA No. 2 and WR 76) who is seeded to meet Cecilia Cortes (WR 72) in the final.

The NASH Cup welcomes back Western alumnae Giselle Delgado (WR 134) and Laura Savage to the tournament along with current Western players Holly Delavigne, Brooke Burrowes and Nicola Crich. Our youngest competitor and top class junior Arden McKillop, has made the main draw and will face a stern test against the Argentine Antonella Falcione (WR 82).